WASHINGTON, DC: Today, Congresswoman Jen Kiggans (VA-02) released the following statement after voting for H.R. 734, the Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act of 2023. H.R. 734 protects fair competition in women’s athletics by enshrining Title IX sex-based protections.

“Ensuring that women and girls enjoy fair competition on the field of play is deeply important to me,” said Congresswoman Kiggans. “This legislation is not about discriminating against any group of people; rather, it allows women to excel in physical activities which promote teamwork, sportsmanship, and self-confidence. Failing to acknowledge basic biological differences between men and women takes away opportunities for women and girls to succeed; we cannot allow that to happen. As a former female athlete, mother of two daughters who are athletes, lifelong runner, and former coach of girls’ sports teams, I’m proud to support this legislation!”

BACKGROUND

Congresswoman Kiggans championed legislation protecting female athletes in Virginia during the Virginia State Senate’s 2022 session. SB766, which she introduced on January 21, 2022, would have enshrined sex-based protections in Virginia law. 

On Tuesday, Congresswoman Kiggans delivered remarks in support of H.R. 734 on the floor of the House of Representatives, as well as at a female Member press conference this morning prior to the passage of the bill.

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